The 38-year-old from New York City beat Nzimiro Oputa and Ronnie Escalante to take the title and the grand prize, which will see them launch a collection in Macy's, Saks Fifth Avenue and H&M.

Laricks put her hands to her face and exclaimed "Oh my God!" as the result was announced.

She later added: "I feel so overwhelmed. I don't know what to say. I'm so thrilled... at the opportunity to keep going and keep designing. This is so exciting, so thrilling!"

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During the season finale, all three contestants were asked to create showcases comprising three items in an attempt to impress the buyers for the final time.

Mentor Nicole Richie told all three contestants that they should be proud of their accomplishments throughout the season, saying: "The important thing to remember here is that all three of you have sold to one of the biggest retailers in America, if not all of them."

Pointing out that neither her, fellow mentors John Varvatos and Jessica Simpson nor host Elle Macpherson had done so, Ritchie added: "I have such a deep amount of respect for all three of you, and you should be extremely proud of where you are tonight."

A tearful Simpson told the contestants: "Each and every one of you, the people that you are and what you represent, you've inspired me to be better."

Laricks's collection will now be available in all three stores, in a prize said to be worth up to $6m.